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Old Apr 18, 2012 | 07:33 PM
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Hi Guys. Well I have always wanted a Harley so I finally bit the bullet and bought one. Taking delivery of a Street Glide on Monday. I have never ridden a bike before and now I'm a little nervous maybe the bike is too big for me based on what a few people have said to me. I have experience with high performance snowmobiles and atv's so I'm reasonably proficient with stuff like that. My original thought was to buy the bike I want and not have to spend the money a year from now anyways after taking a bath on the bike I didn't. Can't go back now, paid in full, so any tips on handling a Street Glide vs a smaller metric bike or sportster etc?

p.s. I am taking the MSF bike course on May 11th weekend.
 

Last edited by WestPalmBop; Apr 18, 2012 at 08:00 PM.
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Old Apr 18, 2012 | 07:38 PM
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Take it easy and get familiar with your machine, congrats.
 
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Old Apr 18, 2012 | 07:41 PM
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Take the course is a great first step. You bought the bike you like so that is a second great step. Next, relax, ride in quiet areas to get the feel and perhaps with an experienced rider as support. Take your time, be safe and you will be fine. Your choice of bike is excellent. Congratulations.
 
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Old Apr 18, 2012 | 07:42 PM
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I am sure you will be fine..You just got the jitters like your first kiss..
 
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Old Apr 18, 2012 | 07:42 PM
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Seriously ? Never ridden a bike? And you bought a SG?

You sir are my hero....

My gut says trailer it home and wait until the course....

But if youre confident enough you can do it then do it...

Hell I watched my cousin buy a brand new Kawi ZX 6 and learn to ride it in the parking lot of the dealer.....

Talk about nervous(me). Not him....cool as a cucumber.


Good luck what ever...and Welcome!
 

Last edited by botz723; Apr 18, 2012 at 07:47 PM.
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Old Apr 18, 2012 | 07:45 PM
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I would have started on something smaller and cheaper. I've seen people by their first bike, learn to ride, and decide that it's not for them. But to each their own. Congrats on the new ride.
 
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Old Apr 18, 2012 | 07:48 PM
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slow and steady wins the race. just take it easy and remember to turn your head and look where you want to go. you will be hearing alot about that in your class. you'll be fine
 
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Old Apr 18, 2012 | 07:50 PM
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First off they Ride a lot lighter once you start going then the weight that are in real life.
Don't take anyone for a ride, just the first few months get use to your bike.
If you have never had a big bike before, I think a riders course may be good to do, also a
motorcycle license if your state laws require one may be a good thing too.
IMO keep your bike stock for as long as you can, Because H-D means Hundreds of Dollars
that being said enjoy the ride, and good luck.
 
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Old Apr 18, 2012 | 07:51 PM
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Congratulations on your new StreetGlide, I owned a '09 and it was an awesome ride. I agree with what the others have said and take the course first and have dealer deliver the bike to your house or hold it until after you have taken the course. I also came from a strong sledding background and found the transition to be very easy. Have fun and ride safe!
 
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Old Apr 18, 2012 | 07:51 PM
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From: walker,louisiana
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start out on quiet country road were u can take your time and enjoy learning
 
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